“True progress isn’t just about honouring the past, it’s also about uplifting those who continue to build the future, one act of courage, compassion, and leadership at a time!”
Having taken over the reins as Centre Manager at Crocworld Conservation Centre in Scottburgh earlier this year, Susan Badat is living true to her words, by uplifting those around her through mindful leadership. Her impressive career history with Crookes Brothers Limited (CBL) – of which Crocworld is a subsidiary – has seen her selected for its prestigious Diamonds 2.0 Development Programme.
This innovative programme identifies unique individuals within the CBL organisation with the potential to climb to great heights through intensive training. For Susan, the first female Centre Manager who has quickly worked her way up the CBL ladder, this is a significant stepping stone in an already distinguished career.
“As a woman navigating both the tourism and agricultural industry, these fields demand grit, passion, and perseverance. Women’s Month really resonates deeply with me as it’s a powerful time of reflection and celebration. It invites us to look back at the trailblazers, those courageous women who challenged limitations, broke down barriers, and carved a path for future generations.”
Crocworld Women Share Words of Advice
Committed to uplifting the women around her, Susan says it’s important to recognise the women who ‘walk beside us every day’: “These are the mothers who nurture us, the daughters who inspire us, the sisters and friends who support us, the colleagues who collaborate with us, the leaders who guide us and the mentors who believe in our potential even when we doubt ourselves.”
This strongly aligns with CBL’s ethos of ‘growing people’ – a concept Susan has taken to heart by constantly growing women within the tourism and agricultural sectors. Some of the women who are learning and growing at Crocworld have shared their views on Women’s Month and what it means to succeed.
1. Nozipho Dlamini: Tourism Assistant
A determined worker, Nozipho has been working at Crocworld for the past 8 years, and is currently studying Business Management with a focus on Occupational Health and Safety. Commenting on the importance of Women’s Month, she said: “This is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made, to become an advocate for change, and to celebrate the courage and determination of women who play an extraordinary role in their communities.”
2. Doris Mbhele: Customer Service
For the past 16 years, Doris has been a fixture at Crocworld where she has been working in administrative roles. She continues to improve herself, having studied Adult Basic Education and Training through UNISA and Customer Service with Crookes Brothers Limited. Her advice to other women is to ‘be patient’ when seeking to fulfil their dreams: “The storm will come with force, but it will soon pass”.
3. Slindile Zikalala: Waitress
Currently studying Financial Management, Slindile has been working as a waitress at Crocworld for 3 years, warmly welcoming patrons to Fish Eagle Café. She says focus, clear goals, and surrounding yourself with supportive people are key to success: “Women’s Month is about recognising our achievements and challenges, while empowering each other.”
4. Luschia Mkhize: Assistant Chef
For the past 7 years, Luschia has been working at Fish Eagle Café, helping prepare the delicious meals that keep customers happy – while also being involved in record-keeping and archives at Crocworld. Her advice to other women is: “Keep trying, even when it seems impossible. Focus on ways you can develop your skills and keep soldiering on!”
Don’t miss out on all the exciting changes Susan Badat and her team have in store for Crocworld! For more information about Crocworld Conservation Centre, call 039 976 1103, visit www.crocworld.co.za or Crocworld Conservation Centre on Facebook and Instagram. Visit Jikaleza Outdoor Adventures Facebook page for more information or call 068 255 7200 to book.
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